Melbourne, the capital
of the state of Victoria, is set around the shores of Victoria's Port
Phillip Bay and is famous for its sense of style and elegance,
Melbourne boasts glamorous festivals and events, major exhibitions
and world-class musical extravaganzas, Australia’s best shopping
and a passion for food and wine. Whether you’re searching for
couture or vintage clothing, souvenirs or sparkling chardonnay, chic
bars, clubs or jazz venues, Melbourne has it all!
The city
sits on the Yarra River, about five kilometres from the bay. One
glance at a map and it's obvious Melbourne is a planned city: a tidy,
balanced grid of neatly angled streets. But beneath this sense of
restraint lies a restless creative energy.
Melbourne’s
calendar is rich in cultural, sporting and culinary events and
festivals. From Grand Slam tennis to Formula One motor racing, air
shows, food and wine festivals, jazz, comedy, surfing or AFL Grand
Finals, whatever you desire, Victoria reverberates throughout the
year.
The first Grand Slam tournament of the international
tennis calendar kicks off in Melbourne in January, followed by the
Australian International Air show at Avalon. The adrenalin rush
continues with high-octane energy at the Australian Formula One Grand
Prix. Phillip Island is famous for its motor racing events including
the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and the V8 Supercar
Championship. Nothing epitomises the spirit of Melbourne as well as
the Spring Racing Carnival and the Melbourne Cup, a blend of high
fashion, high stakes and fantastic parties.
The CBD itself is made
up of many precincts and enclaves with their own distinct flavour and
charm. Some are just a lane or two, while others cover a suburb or a
busy CBD street. Spend time experiencing the richness of Melbourne's
different cultures from the Greek Quarter around Lonsdale Street,
Italian in Lygon street, Vietnamese in Victoria Street to the Chinese
culture in Chinatown and the upmarket Paris End of Collins
Street.
Leave time to admire the elegant Victorian-era
streetscapes, take in a film or food festival and add a visit to one
of the many galleries and opulent theatres.
